Ski-Day Nutrition: Staying Fueled on the Slopes

With ski season in full swing, many of our guests are gearing up for long, thrilling days schussing through Aspen’s famous powder. But life at 8,000 feet—especially if you’ll be burning an average of 350 calories an hour—requires special attention to nutrition and hydration. At the Little Nell, we’re dedicated to helping you embrace every… Read more

2017 James Beard Awards Call for Entries

The countdown to the 2017 James Beard Foundation Awards is underway. Considered the Oscars of the American restaurant world, the Beard Awards are the highest honor for food and beverage professionals working in North America. The awards cover all aspects of the industry—from chefs and restaurateurs to cookbook authors and food journalists to restaurant designers… Read more

A Mountaintop Gathering in Aspen

An excerpt from a blog by The Venue Report, a digital media company who promotes the age old tradition of gathering. As venue aficionados, they collectively have more than 30 years of combined experience in event design & production, not counting the amazing industry professional correspondents experience. They spent a spring weekend at The Nell,… Read more

Silver Spork Social Dinner in Denver

On Dec. 12, diners gathered in downtown Denver for the latest edition of Silver Spork Social, a secret supper club created by a gentleman named Paul Laurie with his partner in crime, Kim Genung, that brings together chefs, bartenders and musicians for a one-night-only event. As Laurie explains, “Silver Spork is not a speakeasy, restaurant or bar,… Read more

New Sommeliers; Uncorked the Series

The Little Nell takes pride in our wine program at the hotel, overseen by Master Sommelier and Wine Director Carlton McCoy. McCoy leads wine tastings and classes for staff on an ongoing basis. The Nell also supports staff pursuits towards wine certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers. Last week, a number of staff from… Read more

Checking in with Matt Padilla, Chef de Cuisine at element 47

Photo: Daniel Krieger. Ever since he graduated from culinary school at Johnson & Wales in Denver, Matt Padilla has pursued a path towards using farm-fresh ingredients in all of his recipes. After school, his first post was at The Kitchen and Colterra in Boulder, Colo., where he learned to make simple but delicious food, and… Read more

Food & Wine Classic in Aspen

The FOOD & WINE Classic in Aspen celebrates 33 years of fine wine, cuisine, Grand Tastings, seminars, socializing and more this weekend. Starting Thurs., June 19, The Nell will be teeming with formal and informal gatherings (from the restaurants to the living room to the stairwells), eccentric events (think pop-up concession carts and Champagne toasts),… Read more

Simon’s Top Summer Traditions

Summertime in Aspen unleashes an abundance of activities that appeal to all. We asked our Managing Director, Simon Chen, for his personal take on the best cultural, social and athletic endeavors in store this season. Q: The Food & Wine Classic is right around the corner – June 19 – 21 – how would you… Read more

Nick Barb Passes the Advanced Sommelier Exam

The Little Nell is thrilled to share the news from the Court of Master Sommeliers. Our very own Nick Barb of element 47 has passed the grueling Advanced Sommelier exam, held in April 2015. Nick shares his insights into this distinction and the work involved to reach this crowning achievement. The Little Nell: Tell us… Read more